Lorraine
Bad Manners
The Chaotic Love Story of Lorraine
Bad Manners' song "Lorraine" is a rollercoaster of emotions, capturing the tumultuous relationship between the protagonist and a woman named Lorraine. The song starts with the protagonist expressing his deep love for Lorraine, only to quickly reveal a darker twist. Lorraine has betrayed him, stealing his heart and his possessions, including a diamond ring and a brand new bed. The repeated line, "And when I find her, I'm gonna kill her," is a hyperbolic expression of his intense anger and sense of betrayal, rather than a literal threat.
The song's narrative takes a humorous turn as the protagonist recounts how Lorraine conned him and disappeared with his belongings. The exaggerated reactions and the comical dialogue, such as the incredulous "A brand new bed?" add a layer of satire to the story. The protagonist's anger is palpable, but it's also clear that his threats are not to be taken seriously. This is further emphasized by the playful tone and the laughter interspersed throughout the song.
In the end, the protagonist finds Lorraine, and instead of acting on his earlier threats, they reconcile and go to bed together. This sudden shift from anger to reconciliation highlights the absurdity and unpredictability of their relationship. The repetition of Lorraine's name throughout the song underscores the protagonist's obsession and the chaotic nature of their love story. Bad Manners, known for their ska and punk influences, use this song to blend humor with the raw emotions of love and betrayal, creating a memorable and entertaining narrative.